In Tibetan, Namtso means 'Heavenly Lake'. It is well known as the most beautiful lake in Tibet and was selected as one of the five most beautiful lakes in China by Chinese National Geography magazine in 2005. With 15,475 feet above sea level and covering 735 square miles, it is the highest saltwater lake in the world. Clear skies join its surface in the distance, creating an integrated, scenic landscape. The water in Namtso Lake is a storybook crystal-clear blue. Soul of every traveler who has ever been here seeming to be cleansed by the pure water.

Where is Namtso Lake?

Address: Namtso Lake, Damxung County, China

Namtso Lake is located at the border between Damxung County of Lhasa Prefecture and Baingoin County of Nagqu Prefecture in Tibet. It is approximately 112 kilometers away from Lhasa. It is over 70km long, reaches a width of 30km and is 35m at its deepest point.

When is the best time to visit Namtso Lake?

The best time to explore the most beautiful landscape in Namtso Lake is from May to October. And the opening hour of the scenic area is 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. Besides, you can make a plan to stay one night in the Namtso Lake that means you can view the most beautiful stars sky in Namtso Lake. Also, you can plan this in a two-day trip which is stopping off at Tsurphu and Yangpachen en route.

In summer, a group of sheep and cows herds is like flowing white blanks on the green grassland which can stretch as far as your eyes can see; innumerable migratory birds fly Namtso Lake to lay eggs and feed their young babies; sometimes you will see lovely fishes jump out of the water to enjoy the warmth of the sunshine. In this moment, heavenly Namtso Lake which is a blessing from nature is full of life and activity.

How to go to Namsto Lake?

As we all know, Namsto Lake is located at 4,718 meters (15,475 feet) above sea level. So if you want to go for a trip to Namsto Lake, you should go to Lhasa city for a couple of days. In this way, you not only get acclimatized to high altitude but also can view the best part of the holy city Lhasa. At present, you can take a train or plane to Lhasa city, but the train is the most popular way for travelers, which means you can view the stunning of the landscape along the world’s highest railway, Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Besides, taking a train to Lhasa from Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, and Xining is very convenient nowadays.

Due to the altitude of Namtso Lake is much higher than that of Lhasa city (12,139 feet above sea level), so you’d better stay Lhasa city at least two days before you go to another place with higher altitude. After a full acclimation, you can take a car or train to Namtso Lake with other travelers in the group.

Tips:
1 You should do not underestimate the cold wind at the lake shore, you will get pretty cold even in summer. As a result, you need to take double jackets rather than a vest.
2 To explore the area and take in all the views, you will need an hour or two. But to walk around the lake seems not possible as it’s too big.

3 If you want to take a photo with a yak or a horse but be prepared to pay. Even if you make a photo only of the yak or horse they might ask you to pay. A Tele lens comes in handy.

4 If you want to go swimming in the cold, I have to disappoint you as it’s not allowed because the lake is holy.

« Back to Home